China lowers minimum amount for tax refunds for tourists to boost spending

BEIJING — (AP) — China announced a lower threshold for tax refunds for foreign tourists among a series of policies on Sunday to boost consumption as its economy comes under pressure during a trade war between Beijing and Washington. Travelers can apply for a tax refund if they spend 200 yuan (about $27) at the same store on the same day and meet other requirements starting Saturday, according to a joint statement by the Ministry of Commerce and other authorities. China has stepped up efforts to spur more consumer spending and private sector investment over the past months, doubling down on subsidies for auto and appliance trade-ins and channeling more funding for housing and other cash-strapped industries.